Sony A7S III image

Sony A7S III

Quick information
Brand Sony 2020
Model E40SNILCE7SM3BX7
Released Year 2020
Type Mirrorless Cameras
Series 7S
Compatible Mountings Sony E
Photo Sensor Resolution 4000 Pixels
Video Resolution 4K UHD up to 120fps
File Format MP4
Status Active
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Overview

The Sony a7S III is a full-frame mirrorless camera designed for professional videographers and photographers prioritizing exceptional low-light performance and video capabilities. It features a 12.1-megapixel backside-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor paired with a BIONZ XR image processor, delivering outstanding sensitivity from ISO 80 to 102,400 expandable to 40-409,600. The camera supports internal 4K video recording up to 120fps with 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling, making it ideal for cinematic production. A sophisticated Fast Hybrid autofocus system with 759 phase-detection points supports real-time eye AF and tracking, ensuring precise focus in challenging scenarios. The model sports a 9.44 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder and a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, enhancing usability during video and stills shooting. Robust build quality with weather sealing and a newly designed cooling system enables extended recording sessions without overheating.

Specifications

Built-In Media Camera Body, Lens & Microphone
Are Batteries Included No
Remote Included No
Metering Methods Light metering using Exmor R CMOS sensor
Exposure Control Manual
Crop Mode full-frame
Display Type OLED
Display Fixture Type OLED
Touch Screen Type Capacitive
Has Color Screen Yes
Memory Slots Available 2
Write Speed Several hundred to over a thousand megabytes per second
Auto Focus Technology Hybrid Autofocus (HA)
Focus Features Autofocus
Autofocus Points 759 phase-detection points
Focus Type Auto Focus
Aspect Ratio 16:9
File Format MP4
Effective Still Resolution 12.1 MP
JPEG Quality Level Fine
Supported Image Format JPEG, RAW
Total Still Resolution 12.1 MP
Lens Type Interchangeable Lens
Zoom Manual
Camera Lens The Sony 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G Lens SEL200600G offers a versatile focal length range from 200mm to 600mm, making it ideal for capturing distant subjects with precision. The lens features a constant aperture of F5.6-6.3, ensuring consistent performance across the zoom range.
Real Angle Of View 12.47 Degrees
Number of Diaphragm Blades 9
Connectivity Technology HDMI, USB, Multi Interface Shoe
Wireless Technology Bluetooth
Video Output HDMI
Total USB Ports 1
Total Video Out Ports 1
Shooting Modes Automatic
Digital-Still Yes
Movie Mode Yes
Image Capture Type Stills & Video
Night vision No
Compatible Mountings Sony E
Sensor Type 12.1MP Full-frame Exmor R CMOS
Image stabilization Variations in the optical path
Photo Sensor Resolution 4000 Pixels
Photo Sensor Size Full Frame (35mm)
Minimum Shutter Speed 0.000125 seconds
Form Factor Mirrorless
Video Resolution 4K UHD up to 120fps
Viewfinder 0.64-type 9.44M-dot OLED EVF
Flash Modes Flash will never fire, The camera automatically decides whether to use the flash based on the lighting conditions, Reduce red-eye effect when flash is used, The flash will always fire, regardless of the lighting conditions, Slow sync mode with red-eye reduction, Slow sync mode without red-eye reduction, and Always-on flashlight mode
Camera Flash no flash
Skill Level Professional
Specific Uses For Product Videography, Photography
Compatible Devices Sony cameras with E-mount compatibility and potentially other brands' cameras with an appropriate adapter
Aperture modes Manual
Viewfinder Magnification 0.9x
Audio Input Shotgun Microphone
Flash Sync Speed 1/250
Video Capture Format 4k
Expanded ISO Maximum 409600
Water Resistance Level Not Water Resistant
Frame Rate 120
Microphone Technology Beamforming
Shutter Type Focal Plane Shutter
Crop Factor 1
Number of Channels 4
Mounting Thread Type Sony E
Long Exposure Shutter Mode Bulb
Has Image Stabilization Yes
Lens Mount Sony E
Image Processor BIONZ XR
ISO Range 80-102,400 (expandable to 40-409,600)
Video Formats XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I
Display 3.0-inch Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD
Image Stabilization 5-axis In-body image stabilization
Shutter Speed 1/8000 to 30 seconds
Continuous Shooting Up to 10fps
Storage Media Dual SD card slots (UHS-II compatible)
Connectivity Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, HDMI
Battery Life Approx. 600 shots (CIPA)
Dimensions 128.9 x 96.9 x 80.8 mm
Weight Approximately 699 g (with battery and memory card)
Build Magnesium alloy body, weather-sealed
Audio 3.5mm mic input, headphone jack, XLR adapter support

Key Advantages

The Sony a7S III boasts exceptional high ISO performance for ultra-low-light photography and video, outperforming many competitors. Its ability to record internal 4K video at up to 120fps with 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth offers filmmakers advanced creative flexibility. The autofocus system is fast, accurate, and reliable even in dim conditions with real-time tracking and eye detection. The camera's cooling system prevents overheating during prolonged video recording, a significant improvement over earlier models. The intuitive interface with customizable controls and a high-resolution EVF enhances operational efficiency. Moreover, it supports multiple professional codecs and external recording options via HDMI, catering to demanding workflows.

Limitations

The 12.1MP sensor resolution may be limiting for photographers requiring high megapixel counts for large prints or extensive cropping. The relatively high price point can be a barrier for hobbyists or entry-level users. Battery life, while improved, still requires multiple batteries for extended professional shoots. The absence of in-body zoom capabilities means users must rely on external lenses for focal length variations. The large file sizes for high bitrate video can require significant storage and high-performance editing systems. Additionally, some users may find the menu system complex due to the extensive features packed into the camera.

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